Flying Aphids

Flying Aphids are the winged varity of regular aphids and cause the same problems. They are soft-bodied insects that use their piercing sucking mouthparts to feed on plant sap. Large numbers of aphids present on plants can cause wilting from removal of sap and the spreading of plant viruses.

The most common problem caused by aphids is their excessive production of honeydew. This sticky substance drips onto plant leaves and stems and becomes covered with a black sooty mold. Patios, outdoor furniture, walkways and cars under trees with aphids get covered with this sticky fluid. Even though plants may look bad from the growth of sooty molds, these fungi won't damage the plant tissues. Once the aphids are eliminated, the sooty mold often dries up and falls off the plant.